黒餅に八鷹羽家紋牡丹蒔絵鏡箱|Mirror, and Mirror Box (Kagami-bako) with Feather Crest and Peony Scrolls
Unknown Artist
Medium
Lacquered wood with gold hiramaki-e on black lacquer ground; bronze mirror
Dimensions
Diam. 14 7/8 in. (37.8 cm)
Classification
Lacquer
Culture & Period
Japan · Box: Edo period (1615–1868), 18th century; Mirror: Kamakura period (1185–1392)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Accession Number
2015.500.2.50a–c
Art Historical Context
This exquisite *Mirror Box (Kami-bako)* from Japan's Edo period (1615–1868), crafted the 18th century houses a bronze mirror dating to the earlier Kamakura period (118–1392). Measuring nearly 15 inches in diameter, the lacquered wood box features a striking black lacquer ground—evoking the texture of rice cakes (kuro-mochi)—adorned with intricate gold *hiramaki-e* designs. flat sprinkled-gold techniques depict peony scrolls and the eight hawk feather family crest, symbols of aristocratic lineage and prosperity, showcasing the meticulous artistry of Japanese lacquerware. Lacquer boxes like thi...